A Ski Town in Summer: Spotlight on Beaver Creek

There’s an old saying about Colorado’s Vail Valley, a region that includes Vail, Beaver Creek, Avon, and more: “You come for the winters, but stay for the summers.” And anyone who’s summered in Beaver Creek can vouch that its “off-season” is still very much on. From outstanding dining to world-class golf within breathtaking surroundings, who’s even thinking about snow?

Have a Blast with the Entire Family

Beaver Creek is one of the most family-friendly ski destinations in the world, and that doesn’t change in the off-season. The resort holds its very own Kids’ Day Camp from June through August, but if you want to experience the village as a family, there’s plenty of activities to keep everyone happy. For example, there’s nothing quite like ending your day relaxing at a movie screening under the stars—and that happens most Tuesdays. Wednesdays, opt for a free outdoor yoga class followed by live music at Concerts By The Creek. Then, put on your cowboy boots for the Beaver Creek Rodeo held most Thursdays. And for all types of music fans, Beaver Creek draws big names: Trace Adkins, CCR, and Peter Frampton are all on the line-up this summer.

Try Restaurants Serving Up Incredible Views

One standout restaurant in Beaver Creek is Grouse Mountain Grill, whose fans are hyper-enthusiastic about the views and the food. Jaw-dropping mountain landscapes are framed by panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows, and the only thing more distracting may be the food. Think pretzel-crusted pork chops, sweet corn and mascarpone agnolotti, and marbled chocolate bread pudding. And that’s not the sole place you’ll want to spend an evening. Try Splendido at the Chateau, where veteran chef Brian Ackerman puts a new spin on American cuisine while live piano accompanies your appetizers, or Mirabelle, which sits on a historical landmark and serves a foie gras to die for.

Hike to Captivating Heights

All the best ski towns are multi-purpose and season-less; they cater to the adventurous types in summer with adrenaline-packed activities for all ages. Beaver Creek’s multi-use trails are designed to accommodate hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. You can opt for a guided tour to learn a little extra about the flora and fauna you’ll be seeing as you cavort through the wildflower fields. After working your way to a viewpoint, think gourmet picnics at sunset, wine-tasting under the stars, or snapping a few photos of the breathtaking vistas over Beaver Creek Village.

Stay Where the Livin’ is Easy

Available to rent for a group of up to 12, Silver Mine villa is a luxury home with five spacious bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen with a breakfast bar sure to fuel an adventure-packed day, and a gas fireplace to cozy up next to in the evening. Wood beams and throw rugs give it the true ski chalet feel, and Dial-A-Ride shuttle service gets you to Beaver Creek village in a cool five minutes. For day trips, Vail and Breckenridge are within driving distance.

Pack Your Golf Shoes for Mountain Views

A golfer is nothing short of spoiled on a summer vacation in Beaver Creek. Pack your clubs for a trio of championship courses with awe-inspiring mountain backdrops. Designed by legendary golf course architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr., Beaver Creek Golf Club is worth its weight in green fees for the views alone. Elevated tees and narrow fairways may give you fits, but the Rocky Mountain views will bring you back to your happy place. Red Sky Ranch is a private course with limited guest access, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do your best to tee it up there. Your first tough decision: Deciding between the Tom Fazio- and Greg Norman-designed courses. Last but not least, EagleVail is a mountain course for the golfer/environmentalist. Having received recognition for its commitment to environmental quality, you’re left to admire the rivers, streams, ponds, wetlands, forests, and gardens stretching across both its 18-hole and par-3 courses.